3 Set Pieces in 3 Games: How Did Chelsea Threaten Arsenal?

London derbies never lack stories. This time at the Emirates Stadium, Arsenal defeated Chelsea 2-1, but the scoreline was far less dramatic than the actual match. Chelsea scored first, but Arsenal completed the comeback through a goal and an assist from Havertz. After reviewing the match, there are three points worth discussing in detail.

Havertz: Not a striker, but a moving problem

Havertz started in a central position, but once the match got underway, he was hardly staying in one fixed area. His frequent moves to the wings, dropping back, and runs between lines caused major problems for Chelsea's five-man defense. These flexible movements created local numerical advantages and kept Chelsea's defensive marking a step behind.

The equalizer came from his accurate finish, while the winning goal was scored by Odegaard after Havertz provided the assist. One goal and one assist are clear in the statistics. But more valuable was the constant sense of defensive dislocation he created—if you track him, he moves away; if you do not, he attacks the space. Chelsea's defenders were solving difficult choices throughout the match, and Havertz was the one creating the questions.

Post-match assessments said Havertz has always been an excellent player, but he has now become a regular starter in Arsenal's lineup. That statement is not exaggerated. An attacking player who can act as both a focal point and a free-moving player is a nightmare for any defense.

Chelsea's set pieces: First in the league, not by chance

Although Chelsea lost this match, their set-piece attack deserves separate attention. No Premier League team has scored more set-piece goals than Chelsea this season—four set-piece goals in just three matches. Across the entire league, this record stands alone.

The change has come from new set-piece coach Austin MacPhee. His approach is clear: through clever positioning, Chelsea keep players making forward runs during corner attacks and create confusion in opponents' defensive structures. It is not about simply overpowering opponents with headers, but about using movement and space to create chances. This sense of design makes every Chelsea corner and free kick dangerous.

Some analysis suggests these small advantages could help Chelsea become at least a top-four contender this season. The value of set pieces in the Premier League is clear, and in major clashes a single set piece can often change the direction of a match. If Chelsea can maintain this creativity, their push for the top four is not just empty talk.

The derby's intensity has returned

The intensity of this match was much greater than the scoreline suggested. The two sides had multiple confrontations, and the rivalry among fans was also full of tension. This atmosphere is what a London derby should feel like.

Under the leadership of Xabi Alonso, Chelsea are narrowing the gap with Arsenal. Their performances have shown why many people believe they are Arsenal's biggest title rivals this season. Although they lost this match, Chelsea's competitive level and physical intensity look completely different from last season.

For Arsenal, winning this tough battle means they remain among the title favorites. However, Chelsea's close pursuit will make this season's Premier League title race more exciting. The return of fierce derby competition is good news for fans—the matches are more entertaining, and the suspense has returned.